ROCHESTER — Early Thursday afternoon officials were roping off the scene at the intersection of Pine and North Main streets for a reported gas leak at a construction site.

Rochester fire and police crowded around the site as firefighters sprayed water to disperse the gas and residents were evacuated from their homes. At least one person was transported to Frisbie Memorial Hospital, as a strong smell of gas filled the air.

Officials were unavailable for comment as they rushed to contain the scene and put up caution tape.

The road was closed at this time.

Firefighters began clearing the scene by 1:40 p.m. and said they were inspecting Pine Street homes to check for remaining natural gas indoors.

Asst. Fire Chief Mark Dupuis estimated 50 people were evacuated from their homes and directed to the Victory Club across the street.

He said the Unitil gas company along with Earth Construction would investigate the issue, though Dupuis said he suspected a gas line had been struck. The injury on scene may or may not have been related to the leak, Dupuis said, noting the man was complaining of chest pains.

He noted people would be returned to their homes within approximately one hour.